More then 12 months since the Federal Government announced new National Fundraising Principles to be adopted in every State and Territory, progress has slowed. The principles offer a single set of modern, fit-for-purpose rules for all registered charities to comply with wherever they fundraise in Australia.

The Coalition for Fundraising Reform has released a report card tracking progress and it’s a concerning picture of delay and fragmentation.

State and Territory governments agreed to progress implementation plans by July 2023. Tasmania, Queensland, and South Australia have taken steps to implement the reforms. But other State and Territory governments are yet to release their implementation plans.

Justice Connect’s Head of Not-for-profit Law, Geraldine Menere, expressed disappointment in the delay of several jurisdictions to progress this key reform for the charity sector.

“The lack of action is concerning and casts a shadow over the prospects of successful harmonisation and genuine red tape reduction for charities anytime in the near future.”

Menere said the reforms could save charities hundreds of hours of unnecessary administration.

“But to realise this benefit, the reforms must be implemented quickly and consistently to ensure the key aims – simplification and harmonisation – are achieved.”